Kumho Tire has selected Opole in Poland as the site for its European plant. The decision is part of the company’s strategy to expand its global production footprint and accelerate growth in the European market.
The European facility is scheduled to begin initial operations in August 2028, pending investment and regulatory approval. The first phase will support an annual production capacity of six million tires, with phased expansions planned according to market demand. The total investment is valued at US$587m.
Kumho evaluated several European countries as potential locations for the new plant, assessing factors such as site suitability, sales growth potential, investment stability, profitability and available incentives. After a thorough review of the final two candidate regions, the company selected Opole for its logistical advantages, workforce, infrastructure, access to the European market and the incentives offered by the Polish government.
Europe accounts for about 25% of global tire consumption, making it a strategically important market for Kumho. In 2024, European sales represented approximately 26.6% of the company’s total revenue. By establishing a local production base, Kumho aims to support stable sales growth and expand its range of products, including high-performance and large tires.
“The European market holds tremendous strategic significance in the global tire industry,” said Jung Il-Taik, the president and CEO of Kumho Tire. “By establishing local production and supply capabilities in Europe, Kumho Tire will strengthen its market competitiveness, local responsiveness and attractiveness to European vehicle manufacturers with the product quality for which the brand is renowned.”
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